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country & western hit parade 1954

The first six volumes covering 1945-1950 were released in 2008. Right away, the word was out. This series is definitive, fabulously packaged, and faultlessly remastered! - Jack Clement, who produced Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Waylon Jennings, Don Williams, and many others, said, 'this is the best country series of all time. No doubt. No question.' - Now the story continues from 1951 until 1955. Every CD is generously full. Every booklet is extensive and chocked full of rare photos and illustrations, as well as complete stories behind the songs! - In addition to the hits, the series contains rarities that went on to influence country music.and all music.in the years ahead.

The first six volumes of 'Dim Lights, Thick Smoke And Hillbilly Music,' took us from 1945-1950. Now the story continues, and will eventually end in 1970. The series has been compiled with today's fans in mind. Yes, the big hits are there, but so are the classic performances that weren't necessarily big hits at the time, but became influential in the years ahead. Every volume has incredibly detailed behind-the-scenes stories, fabulously rare photos, and an ongoing history of country music set against the backdrop of the broader American music business. The booklets alone are 72 pages! Definitive You bet! - Superlatives are often overplayed - although the many superlatives used in connection with the unrivalled Bear Family releases over the years are more than well justified - but such words of praise reach new heights with 'Dim Lights, Thick Smoke And Hillbilly Music' which spotlights the Country & Western Hit Parade. We pick up the story. 1954: The hits include Stuart Hamblen's original version of This Ole House, Eddy Arnold's original of I Really Don't Want To Know, Ray Price's early version of Release Me, and Hank Snow's I Don't Hurt Any More. The rarities include Sonny Burns' honky tonk classic Too Hot To Handle, Terry Fell's original version of Truck Drivin' Man. 28 songs in all!